Ignition lock out
 

I'm a new owner of this wonderful car. 2002 911 Turbo and everything seemed to be going fine until took it for a spin and came home, now the ignition switch on the dash will not accept the key. Read the manual front to back and no help. Tried the second key for the car too. Locks and unlocks the doors from the remote sensor on the key. LED light on the key would appear to indicate the battery is good. Could it just be the battery in the key? Help.....don't want to have to have it towed. Also don't want to appear entirely stupid to the guys at the dealership. But do want to ride with hubby for Father's day. Thanks so much.

Have you tried turning the steering wheel left or right while trying to turn the key. If you turned the wheel after the car was shut off, you have to fight the wheel resistance.

If that doesn't do it, then your ignition switch is probably fubar. It is a plastic electrical switch mechanism that is about 20 bucks and prone to issues in the 996 line. From under the dash, remove the air plastic air duct running to that side, look up and unplug the big electrical connector. Then there are 2 screws you need to remove to pull out the ignition switch. Usually you have to scrape off some paint they have on the screws so you can get the bit in the head. The switch is about 20 bucks. I usually keep 3 on hand for my customers as I replace them fairly often. Might not hurt to pick up a spare.

Thank you so much. Will try this and let you know what occurs. It is a start and a good thing to have a good warranty. thanks again. Rotts